2014 Winter Classes Guide: Class-ified Information

With a brand new year comes a whole new crop of fantastic kids’ class offerings—most with start dates between mid- and late-January. While some of our favorite venues have fresh new classes for 2014, many others are continuing to highlight their popular picks (all the while making them better and better each semester)—check out our guide to both inspire resolutions for trying new things, or to help keep your little one building on their existing passions. And keep in mind that many of the children’s activity and enrichment programs featured here have all sorts of other classes, which you can find out more about on their websites. Happy Hunting!

Editor’s note: This list is meant to be selective, rather than definitive. Visit newyorkfamily.com/classes to learn about many more enrichment programs throughout the city.

14th Street Y: Kids ages 1-3.5 can rock, roll, shake, and sing with popular singer/songwriter and guitarist Nathan Tysen at the 14th Street Y’s Musical Notes with Nathan class. Nathan performs a mix of children’s songs, rock & roll tunes, and sing-a-longs. In this interactive class there will be movement, dancing, parachute time, and bubbles. There will also be an introduction to musical concepts, books, finger puppets, instrument demos, and more. 14streety.org

74th St. MAGIC: Get ready to tumble and roll! 74th St. MAGIC’s Tiny Tumblers class in their colorful mini-gym is the perfect place for little ones (6-10 months and 11-18 months) to explore movement and develop gross motor skills through a gently guided exploration of specially-designed equipment. Music is played during all the activities and each 45-minute class ends with fun with bubbles and playing with the parachute. Classes start January 6, 2014. 74magic.com

92nd Street Y: Looking for playtime, art, music, circle time, and snack? Join Parkbench, where 92Y’s well-equipped playrooms invite toddlers ages 13-18 months, 18-24 months, and 2-2.5 years and their adult caregivers to play and make friends. Experts from 92Y’s Parenting Center lead the activities and answer questions. Classes start January 27, 2014. 92Y.org

ABC Do Re Me: From nursery rhymes to the Beatles, from tom-toms to tambourines, nothing warms up a cold winter day like an exciting Musical Playdate class from ABC Do Re ME! Their innovative drop-in music programs let you choose which class to attend on your schedule! Come every day, once a week, or once a month. abcdoremenyc.com

Actor’s Technique New York: ATNY’s On-Camera Acting & Audition Technique Class is taught by private instructors who work closely with TV and film agents, managers, and casting directors. This 9-week class for tweens and teens combines both text analysis and Meisner Technique. Young actors will partner up with each other and train for the final day of acting in front of agents. actorstechniqueny.com

The AmericanMuseum of Natural History: You don’t have to go to the zoo to see lions, tigers and bears! Learn how cultures around the world have been spotting animal shapes in the stars, then see the stars that inspired the stories in the Hayden Planetarium at the AMNH. Along with their caregivers, kids in grades pre-K and kindergarten can make their own constellation model and discover the legends of the night sky! Offered for two Tuesdays, February 4 and 11, 2014. amnh.org

Applause NYC: Looking to get your pre-baby body back or just want a great workout while having tons of fun? Trammell Logan, director of dance at Applause, now presents their signature hip-hop class for moms and caregivers! Through today’s hottest music and choreography, this cardio class will get your heart pumping in no time. Class begins January 27, 2014. applauseny.com

apple seeds: Rock n’ smock, a combo of popular seeds’ classes songs for seeds and my Chelsea art opening, will have kids ages newborn to 5 years singing, dancing, and painting—all in one 90-minute class. Classes start January 6, 2014 and are offered in Chelsea and on the UWS. appleseedsplay.com

The Art Center NY: WithPreschool Art, for ages 3-4, at the Art Center NY, kids can work in a real art studio with a curriculum designed to introduce students to the Elements of Art (line, shape, color, texture, form, value, and space), which uses a variety of materials and techniques. Classes are taught by an experienced specialist and are enriched with plenty of educational materials. theartcenterny.com

The Art Farm in the City: Young chefs learn all about fresh ingredients during the Art Farm’s Farm Foodies cooking class. Chef Sylvie takes a hands-on approach with her seasonal organic menu, teaching students, ages 2-8, to smell mint, shape brioche, and peel rhubarb. Every class ends with a visit to the petting zoo. Classes start January 6, 2014. theartfarms.org

ArtXplorers: ArtXplorers’ programs are designed not only to entertain, but also to engage children as they learn about art. They offer a unique approach to art education that brings together videos, audio series, museums and gallery tours, and creative projects. artxplorers.com

apple seeds

Asphalt Green: Kids learn the basics of gymnastics and the joy of tumbling, rolling, and jumping in Asphalt Green’s Tumble Tots class for ages 2-3. Available at both the Upper East Side and Battery Park City locations. Classes start January 2, 2014. asphaltgreen.org; asphaltgreenbpc.org

AtlanticActingSchool: The Creators class, for ages 6-8, is a must for any young performer looking for an afterschool outlet for creative expression. In this class students will work with their director to create an original short play featuring a character of their own imagination. Class starts February 3, 2014. atlanticactingschool.org

Baby Fingers: Learn American Sign Language through songs and play with other parents and children at Baby Fingers. Go home each week with new vocabulary and new tunes to enhance communication between you and your child! Offered at various NYC locations (for the latest from Baby Fingers see our New Kids On The Block sidebar). mybabyfingers.com

BalletAcademy East: The Petit Dancers Division at Ballet Academy East, which used to start at age 2, now includes special classes for 18-month-olds. Children and their parents or caregivers share the joys of dance and music through song and movement. baenyc.com

The Ballet Club: The Ballet Club’s Performing Arts Pre-Professional Division is a program for students ages 7 and older. The program provides students with an outstanding opportunity to excel and become fluent in ballet, with an emphasis on technique, creativity, choreography, and performance. theballetclub.com

Ballet Hispanico: The bilingual Adventures in Dance program invites young children ages 2-5 into a world of creative dance and Latino culture. Children’s self-expression will flourish as they form friendships in a fun and educational atmosphere. ballethispanico.org

Bija Kids: Bija Kids’ Sound Studio classes for ages 0-6 are creative and movement-filled and incorporate rhythm, singing, instruments, and fun! Each weekly session includes music from around the world as well as opportunities to dance and play. bijakids.com

Bilingual Birdies: Have a blast learning Spanish, Hebrew, French, Mandarin, or English in Bilingual Birdies’ In-Home Private Classes! They guarantee 45 minutes of fun, effective education, where kids learn words and phrases through music, movement, and puppetry. They even provide instruments and a take-home CD for each kid attending. bilingualbirdies.com

Bilingual Buds: Students with no prior experience in Mandarin Chinese or Spanish can join Bilingual Buds’ new Elementary Integration Program (for kids in grades 1-4) as a way to transition into their mainstream dual-language program. Small-groups and individual attention allows participants to acquire Mandarin or Spanish while learning content. bilingualbuds.com

BookNook: Within their comfortable and welcoming ambiance, BookNook’s early childhood enrichment program on the Upper West Side offers classes in everything related to literacy, from reading and phonics to handwriting and kindergarten readiness. The 90-minute classes are capped at six students each and divided into five different age-appropriate levels for ages 1.5-7. booknooknyc.com

Bounce & Flip: Bounce & Flip’s preschool classes will introduce the basic gymnastics skills to assist in developing self-confidence and technique. The pre-school series will offer classes taught with parent participation for children ages 18-36 months and without for children ages 3-5. bounceandflip.com

Bright Kids NYC: Prepare your child to meet the NYS Common Core Learning Standards with Bright Kids’ Common Core Enrichment program. Beginning in February, children grades pre-K-2 can attend a weekly ELA or math class (or both!) at Bright Kids’ downtown or UES centers. Each class is 30 minutes long and meets twice a week. brightkidsnyc.com

Chelsea Piers

The Carousel of Languages: The Carousel of Languages seeks to enrich the minds and spirits of young children through the beauty and discovery of a foreign language. Hourly classes are available in Italian, Mandarin, French, Spanish, Russian, and English for ages 6 months to 10 years at locations on the Upper East and West Sides. carousellanguages.com

Chabad Preschool at Beekman Place: In the Baby Loves Shabbat program, youngsters can experience Jewish songs, traditions, and music in a Shabbat party for little learners! Accompanied by a guitarist, kids and their caregivers enjoy Shabbat songs, parachute play, candle lighting, and Challah baking. beekmanjewishpreschool.com

Chelsea Piers: Lace up your skates and get in the Olympic spirit at Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers! The Skating School offers both hockey and figure skating programs for kids ages 3 and up, allowing skaters to progress from beginner Learn to Skate classes all the way to the Junior and Elite Prep programs or the competitive hockey leagues and travel team. chelseapiers.com/sr/skating-school

Child’s PlayNY: In their programming for pint-sized players Child’s Play NY delights in dramatic play, song and creative movement and storytelling at their Imagine That class for ages 2-3. Using their bodies, voices and minds, students reinterpret classic and contemporary children’s literature and are inspired to create their own adventures. childsplayny.com

Children’s Museum of the Arts (CMA): CMA’s afterschool Fashion Design program is a semester-long class for ages 5-15. Young designers will learn the fundamental techniques of sewing and how to read patterns. Children will experiment with fabric printing and marbling techniques using a variety of fabrics and textiles to create a mood board—after which they’ll create a garment. Classes start January 27, 2014. cmany.org/classes/afterschool

Children’s Museum of Manhattan (CMOM): CMOM’s new Science Explorers class, for ages 3-4 is a 3-hour long science class, which includes a daily trip to one of CMOM’s own exhibitions! Kids learn about the natural wonders of the world through interactive stories, art projects, science experiments, and more. CMOM educators introduce classroom skills like listening, observing, and developing a love of learning. Classes start January 28, 2014. cmom.org

ChurchStreetSchool for Music and Art: Preschoolers ages 2-4 explore, learn, and grow in Arts Express, an innovative music and art immersion drop-off program. This program incorporates Dalcroze eurhythmics, visual art, free play, story time, and snack. Morning, afternoon, and full-day options are offered 2-3 days per week, as are four-day pre-K options. churchstreetschool.org

Citibabes: Budding gourmets experience the pleasures of the kitchen in Citibabes’ Pots And Pans signature class for ages 2-3. Delicious and healthful recipes come to life as children have the opportunity to use all of their senses while developing fine motor, math, and social skills. Each class ends with a tasty morsel to take home, and the semester ends with a completed cookbook to enjoy forever. Classes start January 27, 2014. citibabes.com

Discovery Programs

Collina Italiana: Giardino dei Bambini is a morning drop-off playgroup at CI for kids ages 2-5. Children may join in on the fun every Tuesday and Thursday from 9am-12pm on an as-needed basis. Experienced instructors provide multiple opportunities for kids to learn Italian through games, activities, songs, dance, theater, and hands-on creative art projects. Classes start January 7, 2014. collinaitaliana.com

Columbus Gym: Columbus Gym turned 25 this year and they’re doing flips about it! Join them for tumbling, climbing, swinging, balancing, and bouncing in one of their Tiny Tot Fitness classes. Little gymnasts (10 months and up) will build strength and confidence, socialize with friends, and have a ton of fun exploring the huge gymnastics space and learning the fundamentals of athletics through gymnastics. columbusgymnyc.com

Construction Kids: Afterschool at Construction Kids’ Brooklyn Navy Yard workshop is a dynamic and creative afternoon. Children in grades pre-K-4 learn how to use tools to make projects which they take home. Projects vary depending on the age and experience level of the child, but can range from puppets, animals, vehicles, and go-carts, to making toys and mazes and fantastic buildings. constructionkids.com

The Craft Studio: Come out of the cold and put together your own semester-long class! Perfect for your preschoolers, and even fun for tweens! From music and art to fashion and Rainbow Loom-ing, the crafting options are endless! All the Craft Studio needs is five kids to run a class lead by a crafty mom, dad, or caregiver. Examples include unique Rainbow Loom classes, canvas workshops, chocolate painting, and more. craftstudionyc.com

Creative Play for Kids: Come sing, dance, and play at Creative Play for Kids’ Drop-In Music, Movement, and Play class!These live music classes offer babies and toddlers an upbeat, dynamic, and experience every Monday afternoon on the Upper West Side. Classes start January 13, 2014. creativeplayforkids.com

Diller-QuaileSchool of Music: Love to sing, move, and explore instruments? Enjoy drawing, printing, and making collages and sculptures? Getting ready for preschool? If so, join the Diller-Quaile School of Music for a fun and educational Music and Art class for Nearly Twos and Twos and caregivers. Classes start in January. diller-quaile.org

Discovery Programs: Tyke Sports from Discovery Programs is a high-energy class that introduces the world of sports to children ages 25-36 months and 3-4 years. Tykes on this team will run like panthers, slither like snakes, cheer for one another, and explore sports like baseball, tennis, and soccer. Kids will leave tired, happy, and wanting more sports! discoveryprograms.com

East Side Tae Kwon Do & East Side Yoga: East Side Yoga offers a unique option in NYC: a yoga class for parents and caregivers in one room, with kid-friendly classes offered in another. Start your weekend in a relaxing way while your children have fun too. eastsidetaekwondo.com;eastsideyoganyc.com

Gymboree

Eastside Westside Music Together: The Babies Class, for babies from birth to 7 months , from Eastside Westside Music Together will start your little one on a pathway of music development that will allow them to express inborn musicality. See how responsiveto music your baby is and learn how to support these developing behaviors at home. eswsmusictogether.com

EBL Coaching: EBL Coaching’s afterschool enrichment programs help students in grades pre-K-12 develop reading, writing, math, and organizational skills. Students work in small groups using research-based, multi-sensory strategies. Specialized programs for students with learning disabilities and ADHD are also offered. eblcoaching.com

Fastbreak Sports: Fastbreak’s Multi-sport Program—in their new, state-of-the-art, UES facility—is the ideal program for children ages 2-5 to be exposed to a number of new skills and sports. Every 2-3 weeks children will be introduced to a new sport including basketball, baseball, soccer, football, tennis, and floor hockey (for the latest from Fastbreak see our New Kids On The Block sidebar). fastbreakkids.com

French Institute Alliance Francaise (FIAF): Take your child on a sensory adventure with FIAF’s Les petits chefs Cooking Workshops. Beginning January 15, 2014, toddlers ages 2–4 can discover new seasonal flavors by creating sweet and savory treats. As they stimulate their senses by smelling mint, tasting rhubarb, and shaping brioche, they’ll enhance their French, learn to cook, and of course, enjoy their delicious chef d’oeuvres! fiaf.org

Fukasa Kai: Introduce your 4- to 6-year-old “Karate Kid” to the fun and excitement of Cary Nemeroff ‘s martial arts program, which includes rolling, kicking, and tumbling in a child-friendly, structured environment. The class builds and reinforces focus, self-esteem, and essential tools for academic and life success. Classes begin February 4, 2014 at the World Yoga Center. fukasakai.com

The GagaCenter: Ready, set, go gaga! Kids in grades 2-6 burn tons of energy with one hour of pure fun at the Gaga Center’s After-School Gaga program, including warm-up, instruction, and loads of time to play. Pits are segmented by age groups. Classes start February 3, 2014. gagacenter.com

The GermanAmericanSchool: The German American School’s Playgroup for ages 4-5 teaches kids a basic German alphabet and alphabet song, and includes drawing, crafts, sound production, singing, and other varying activities. german-american-school.org

Hands On!: Using a special instrument-based curriculum, this music studio (in four Manhattan locations) introduces infants, toddlers, and preschoolers to popular folk tunes, nursery rhymes, and lullabies. These Hands On! Musical Experience classes feature stories with puppets, music, and instrument exploration. handsonformusic.com

HiArt!

HiArt!: Put some sunshine in your winter with HiArt!’s all-time fairy favorite: “A Midsummer Night’s Dream!” Their Opera ‘N Art class is a fabulous and fun romp through the Shakespearean fairy kingdom. Opera through hands-on art with endless paint, collage, and glitter is rounded out by gallery hops for kids from age 2 and up. hiartkids.com

¡HOLA! A Playgroup In Spanish: HOLA!’s Two-Three’s program (running at apple seeds) follows a natural approach in order to help develop Spanish speaking skills. The program focuses on a wide repertory of concepts to build vocabulary on topics of interest in the child’s world and helps acquire the correct use of phonetics from a native speaker. The classes are taught through the use of original and traditional music, movement, games, props, and art. Classes start January 7, 2014. holaplaygroup.com

Jazz At Lincoln Center: With their winter concert “Who is Dave Brubeck?” on February 8, 2014, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis brings forth two decades of experience in presenting interactive, amusing, family-friendly shows to introduce and illuminate Brubeck’s extraordinary life to young and old alike, kicking off a festival celebrating Brubeck’s incomparable contributions to jazz. Jazz For Young People is for kids ages 6-12. jalc.org

The JCC in Manhattan: Kids’ health is more important than ever and the JCC’s PopFit Kids program will teach kids healthy habits they can share with the whole family. Through circuits, drills, games, and yoga, each PopFit Fitness Adventure will touch on the critical aspects of the Fab Five: cardio, strength, flexibility, endurance, and balance. Classes start January 23, 2014. jccmanhattan.org

Jodi’s Gym: Do you have a preschooler age 3-5 who’s always on the move? Jodi’s Gym’s Tumbling Tots program will keep them flippin’ head over heels. The fundamentals of gymnastics (and all sports) are developed as children improve their skills on balance beams, bars, rings, tumbling, floor work, vault, tumbletrak, a space bouncer, and much more! Class begins January 21, 2014. jodisgym.com

JoffreyBalletSchool: The Joffrey Ballet School’s Demi Soloist class begins January 27, 2014. Designed for children ages 4.5-5.5, this class helps children continue to practice basic elements of creative movement and ballet through games and exploration of time, weight, and space. Live piano accompaniment proves an enriching and stimulating environment for all classes. joffreyballetschool.com

Karma Kids Yoga: Strap on your scuba gear at Karma Kids Yoga for a Shark Yoga adventure into the deep blue sea to find out why sharks are some of the most important creatures in the ocean. This class, for ages 3-7, includes Great White Shark adoption, beach tote, and a special shark surprise; classes start Saturday, February 8, 2014. karmakidsyoga.com

Kate Tempesta’s UrbanGolfAcademy: Golf indoors? You Bet! Join Kate Tempesta’s Urban Golf Academy this winter for weekly classes at their UES and UWS locations. They play and discover golf with children as young as 3.5 years old with their fun and creative golf drills and games. ktuga.com/weekly-classes

Kids At Art: In addition to their other multi-media art classes for children, Kids At Art will be offering a special 3D Art class in which kids ages 5 and up will use materials like wood, clay, cardboard, found objects, and paper to construct three-dimensional projects like sculptures, murals, marionettes, and mobiles using different construction methods and using reproductions from art history books as inspiration. kidsatartnyc.com

Kids At Work

Kids At Work: Looking for a peaceful, intimate, quiet place for your child to learn? At Toddle Around Drop-in (ages 12 months to 2.5 years) at Kids at Work in Chelsea, your child will paint, squirt, and dump to their heart’s delight at sensory-based and age-appropriate art stations, then they’ll head over for acoustic music that’s off-the-beaten path. kidsatworknyc.com

Kids In Sports: Kids in Sports’ Pre-School Athletes program offers all the sports fun you’ve come to love from one of New York’s top sports program, along with a classroom curriculum designed to aid preschool learners—ages 2.5-4. Classes run for two hours long. kisnyc.com

Kidville: Kidville has expanded its pre-nursery offerings to include KVU Prep (ages 18-24 months). Preparing little scholars for eventual separation in KVU (Kidville’s popular pre-school alternative program) and KVU Grad (coming in fall 2014), KVU Prep promotes independence through exploration and play. Daily activities include art, sensory exploration, story time, music, and gym (for the latest from Kidville see our New Kids On The Block sidebar). kidville.com

The Language Workshop For Children: The Language Workshop for Children’s French, Spanish, or Chinese educational play classes immerse children ages 6-9 in a new language through stimulating activities, award-winning LWFC materials, original vocabulary-rich songs, native-speaking teachers, LWFC stories, and more. languageworkshopforchildren.com

Lil Yogis NYC: Join Lil Yogis NYC for their Yoga Hip Hop class this winter! Classes are for children ages 2-5 and will teach children basic dance moves and routines along with a yoga warm-up. Expect a high-energy class filled with music, dancing, and stretching! lilyogisnyc.com

The Little Gym: The Little Gym’s gymnastics program for preschoolers and kindergarteners has been designed to help children reach developmental milestones. Independent from parents, kids learn gymnastics fundamentals and have plenty of fun. Try the Funny Bugs class for ages 3-4. thelittlegym.com

Little Maestros: Little Maestros is an award-winning infant and toddler music program in its twelfth year of business. The 45-minute weekly classes filled with critically-acclaimed original music and enriching activities are taught by Broadway-quality entertainers who love kids and give 110 percent! littlemaestros.com

Loop of the Loom: At Loop of the Loom’s Zen Weaving sessions (for ages 5 and up),experiment with ideas and materials without a time-limit. Kids can weave with a pre-set loom, take their creations home with them, and express themselves in a fun and therapeutic atmosphere. loopoftheloom.com

LucyMosesSchool at KaufmanMusicCenter: Young maestros ages 2-9 will have a blast in Dalcroze classes, where they explore fundamental musical concepts like meter, tempo, and phrase through rhythm games, creative movement, songs, stories, ear training, sight-singing, and improvisation. Come lay the foundations for a lifetime of music! kaufmanmusiccenter.org/lms

Let’s Gogh Art

Mad Science of New York City & Westchester: Step into the shoes of a secret agent or an astronaut this semester with Mad Science’s curriculum (perfect for kids in grades K-4) of “Secrets, Spies & Spaceships!” Break codes, build rockets, and create telescopes at any of their many locations throughout Manhattan and the outer boroughs. newyorkcity.madscience.org

Make Meaning: A special creativity coach leads art classes at the Make Meaning studio, with locations on both the Upper East and West sides. Budding artists create projects featuring seven inspired experiences using paper, glass, candles, jewelry, ceramics, and soap. Plus, Make Meaning even offers a cake decorating course! makemeaning.com

ManhattanTennisAcademy: MTA’s Quick Start Program for ages 4-7 is all about keeping it fun and exciting, while establishing a foundation for motor skill development. Basic movement and coordination skills will be introduced as kids learn to send the ball with their hands, scaled down racquets and other equipment that fosters enjoyable learning experiences. manhattantennisacademy.com

Mathnasium of Manhattan: The Mathnasium Enrichment Program is offered year-round for qualifying students in 2nd grade through Algebra 1. This program allows for eight scheduled instruction hours per month. Each instructor works with 1-3 students every hour in a semi-private setting, combining individualized instruction with independent work in a fun environment (for the latest from Mathnasium see our New Kids On The Block sidebar). mathnasium.com

Moey’s Music Party: Educate and entertain your infant, toddler, or preschooler with the most fun music class in NYC! Every week during Moey’s eight week semester is a different type of music party that introduces children to songs, dances, instruments, movement, puppets, finger-play, and musical story time. Winter 2014 class themes include seasonal parties like Valentine’s Day and Winter Wonderland in addition to kid favorites like pirate, train, and jungle themes. moeysmusicparty.com

MusiBambino Music & Dance Program: Welcome to MusiBambino, where highly-skilled teachers and pianists introduce the magical world of music to kids ages 4 months to 5 years! Children have fun with sing-alongs, games, musical instruments, creating group ensembles with friends and teachers. Specially-designed kid-sized instruments await the touch of curious little hands (for the latest from MusiBambino see our New Kids On The Block sidebar). musibambino.com

Music for Aardvarks and Other Mammals: Get ready to rock at the all-new Music for Aardvarks in Chelsea. Babies and toddlers with their cregivers come together to celebrate growing up in New York City. With Music for Aardvarks’ original songs and coloring books this winter is going to be the best one so far. Classes start January 10, 2014. musicformanhattan.com

My Gym Harlem: Rhythm and Youths is a dynamic music program for the youngest of musicians (ages 6 months to 3 years) that blends music education with all of the fun of My Gym! Children sing, dance, play instruments, laugh, pretend, and learn. While doing so kids develop rhythm, motor coordination, cultural awareness, and preschool readiness. mygymisfun.com

The Art Farm in the City

My Gym UES: Cardio Kids combines a cardio workout with strength and flexibility exercises for children ages 6-9 who may be surrounded by the sedentary distractions of TV, the Internet, and video games. Endurance and motor skills are increased through a series of exciting and dynamic activities. mygym.com

New YorkJazzAcademy: The dynamic Jelly Jamz curriculum draws upon classic and modern jazz, original songs, and folk music to encourage musical development. Through the integrating song, dance, rhythm, and movement, toddlers ages 6 months to 4 years experience an exciting musical repertoire designed to develop an early appreciation of music. nyjazzacademy.com

New York Theatre Ballet: New York Theatre Ballet, the company that brings you the “Once Upon A Ballet “series at Florence Gould Hall, will be offering Pre-Ballet classes for your budding dancers ages 3-7. Classes start January 6, 2014. All students work towards dancing in a fully costumed performance scheduled for June 14, 2014. nytb.org

NYChessKids: One of the largest youth chess programs available, NYChessKids spreads its love for the classic game through organized tournaments and afterschool chess programs throughout the city. Instructors also host classes at the New York Public Library and also offer private lessons. nychesskids.com

NY City Explorers: Preschool 101 is an educational enrichment program that provides children ages 22 months to 4 years with an opportunity to experience a classroom setting and social learning environment. Classes are facilitated by enthusiastic teachers who provide engaging activities that foster creativity, independence, and self-discovery. nycityexplorers.com & brooklynlearninggarden.com

NY Kids’ Club: Pre-Ballet (for ages 18-24 months and 2-2.11 years) at NY Kids’ Club is a creative and enriching introduction to ballet for young dancers. Children learn body awareness, spatial awareness, rhythm, and music appreciation. Basic concepts of movement are reinforced each class as props and costumes complete the magic of each 45-minute session (for the latest from NY Kids’ Club see our New Kids On The Block sidebar). nykidsclub.com

PeridanceCapezioCenter: The School at the Peridance Capezio Center’s PeriChild program offers dance classes for children ages 6-12. As students grow and mature, discipline and basic vocabulary of various techniques are introduced through positive and nurturing teaching methods. The program’s structure allows students, according to their age and level, to choose their favorite style of dance. peridance.com

Physique Swimming: Make a splash in 2014 with Physique Swimming! Their award-winning aquatics program is open to swimmers of all ages and skill levels. With skilled instructors and a structured program students will transform into star swimmers and build aquatic confidence for life. physiqueswimming.com

Planet Han: Come and make noodles, dumplings, scallion pancakes, and many more authentic Chinese dishes in Planet Han’s kitchen while learning Mandarin! Han Chefs is an innovative class, for children ages 3 and up, designed to inspire, excite, and encourage a love of healthy food. Participants increase their Chinese vocabulary and learn about techniques, tools, utensils, and ingredients. Classes start January 19, 2014. planethanchinese.com

Playgarden: Little ones 18 months to 6 years old learn to passe and pirouette at PlayBallet. Rhythm, muscle control, and balletic terms and etiquette are introduced through unique songs and choreography. Kids of all ages become superstars on the stage in our first-class, end of year recital on June 1, 2014. playgardennyc.com

The School At Steps; photo by E. Patino

Poppyseed Pre-Nursery: At Boogying Babes from Poppyseed Pre-Nursery, babies and toddlers boogie ‘n bond with parent or caregiver in cheerful song as they drum the beat, rock in rhythm, sway with scarves to the strum of guitar, and more! Class starts January 22, 2014. poppyseedprenursery.com

The PrenatalYogaCenter: In the Core Health Workshop with Jyothi postnatal class students will check for diastasis recti, the separation of abdominal muscles that often occurs during pregnancy. New moms will discuss the anatomy and physiology of the core and learn how to effectively strengthen their core. Babies are welcome; workshop will be held on January 28, 2014 (for the latest from the Prenatal Yoga Center see our New Kids On The Block sidebar). prenatalyogacenter.com

Private Picassos: Private Picassos’ In-Home Group Art Classes are 45-minute long programs that bring their popular Public Classes directly to your home for groups of four kids or more. A Private Picassos instructor will bring all of the necessary materials to facilitate this class in your home and will determine which of their curriculums would best suit the students’ ages (from 18 months and up) and interests. privatepicassos.com

RoboFun: RoboFun offersdynamic and innovative LEGO Robotics Afterschool Clubs for creative, inquisitive kids! Students in grades K-6 will enjoy experimenting with science while they learn to design, construct and program robots using age appropriate LEGO technology. Offerings include Pre-Robotics (for kindergarteners), RCX or WeDo (grades 1-3), and NXT Mindstorms (grades 4-6). Afterschool clubs begin the week of January 6, 2014. robofun.org

Rutgers Community Programs: Spark curiosity and creativity with RCP’s Once Upon a Child programs—interdisciplinary, theme-based afternoon classes for ages 3-5. Explore science experiments and construction in Once Upon a Discovery; dramatic play, dance and story-based art in Once Upon a Fairy Tale; and world travel through food, games, and music in Once Upon a Journey. Classes start January 7, 2014. rutgerschurch.org

The School At Steps: Explore the exciting world of dance at the School at Steps. The Young Dancers Program, for ages 2-6, offers a nurturing and full-filled dance experience that fosters imagination, body coordination, and musicality through creative movement. Register early, classes begin January 27, 2014. stepsnyc.com/school

SciTech Kids: SciTech Kids’ Afterschool and Weekend Programs enable budding scientists, ages 3-15 the ability to discover and explore STEM + the Arts through observations, experimentation, storytelling, and creative play. While engaging in an activity, young scientists are encouraged to observe, predict, and interpret their findings. sci-techkids.com

socialsklz:-): clubsocialsklz:-) is an engaging 10- week afterschool program for everyday children! “KIDZ” will learn proper greetings and introductions, communication skills, phone interaction, dining skills, empathy, and more, through activities, role-play, and a mini-excursion in the neighborhood. The workshop series culminates with an in-class dinner party. Classes start January 8, 2014. socialsklz.com

Soccer by Coach Fher: Soccer by Coach Fher is offering indoor winter soccer skills classes for kids, through the spring and summer of 2014. With classes at various locations in Manhattan, these classes are must-dos for keeping kids busy during the winter months! coachfher.com

SPORTIME Randall’s Island: Grab your tennis racket and get out to SPORTIME Randall’s Island and the John McEnroe Tennis Academy and check out the MacStart Tennis Program for players ages 3-7. This class offers 60 minutes of high-energy tennis, using specialized tennis balls and equipment, and innovative teaching techniques. Classes begin January 25, 2014. sportimeny.com/manhattan

Super Soccer Stars

StageCoach Theatre Arts: This is just the place for your budding thespian! Whether your child has their sights set on Broadway or just loves performing in the living room, StageCoach will offer them a well rounded education in the musical theatre disciplines—singing, acting, and dance—while introducing them to life skills and new friends! Perfect for ages 4-16. Classes start January 4, 2014. stagecoachschools.com/uppereastside

SwimJim: Winter is the best time to dive in and get a head start on those summer swimming skills. SwimJim’s Learn to Swim Beginner program, SwimKids, offers beginners the chance to enjoy the water, gain confidence, and learn valuable skills. It is never too early or too late to learn to swim. Swimming is a life long sport that saves lives. swimjim.com

TADA! Youth Theater: For thespians ages 2-3 and their caregivers, TADA!’s Theater On Their Scale (T.O.T.S) develops language and coordination through musical movement. T.O.T.S. incorporates song and story using cooperative play, sign language, and creative exploration—a perfect blend for toddlers and their caregivers! Classes start January 13, 2014. tadatheater.com

TakeTwoFilmAcademy: Take Two Film Academy is offering Friday Afterschool Filmmaking and Acting Workshops, with Saturday Workshops as well as a February break classes this winter for students 8-14 years old. Students work in teams to write, act, shoot, and edit their own short films. Every student is invited to participate in all aspects if they want. taketwofilmacademy.com

Tennis Innovators: Don’t let the cold weather keep your child off the courts! Tennis Innovators offers captivating programs delivering all aspects of tennis with an innovative and fun approach, all indoors. Players will develop hand-eye coordination and technique, during interactive classes. The 10 & Under Tennis Academies are designed to encourage play and a love for the sport for players of any level and age. tennisinnovators.com

TLB Music: Early music education blends together with art appreciation in TLB’s newest music class series for ages infant to 5 years: Colors with Cozmo. Each week, the music class is inspired by a new color and famous paintings. From Dalí to Debussy and Monet to Mozart—TLB will cover it all while making music, introducing orchestra instruments, and targeting developmental goals through play. tlbmusic.com

Yogi Beans

West Side Taekwondo: if your child has the indoor blues, let them run, jump and kiop at West Side Taekwondo. They offer a winter semester for kids ages 4-5. At West Side Taekwondo, children will learn the ideas of discipline, respect, and confidence through activities designed to increase aerobic capacity, sharpen motor skills, and increase focus. westsidetkd.com

YMCA (Chinatown): The Chinatown YMCA’s Indoor Playgroundis an ideal way to get children moving in a safe indoor play space.Let your children havethe run of 3,200 square feet of gym space with other children their age. Indoor Playground provides families the chance to get to know each other while running, jumping, climbing, balancing, and playing with balls. Open Monday-Friday from 10am to 12pm. ymcanyc.org/chinatown

YMCA (Harlem): During the winter months, staying active doesn’t have to be a challenge. The Harlem YMCA’s Soccer Foundations program offers indoor soccer for kids ages 3-8. Children can learn skills and techniques, as well as improve on their eye-foot coordination. Most importantly it’s a place to have fun! ymcanyc.org/harlem

YMCA (Vanderbilt): Starting January 6, 2014, kids ages 2-4 can check out eight-week sessions of Preschool Spanish at the Vanderbilt YMCA. Kids will discover Spanish in an interactive and engaging environment that builds vocabulary and social skills. They’ll learn concepts like colors, shapes, numbers, and opposites using puppetry, art, songs, and more! ymcanyc.org/vanderbilt

Yogi Beans: The Me & My Bean Yoga (for walkers up to age 2, and for ages 2-4) at Yogi Beans’ UES Studio will introduce basic yoga postures to your little one in a playful way. Musical instruments, colorful props, and catchy songs are incorporated to keep up with your toddler’s imagination. Adult participation required. yogibeans.com

ZGT: It’s time to start ordering Chinese food in Mandarin! This winter’s speaking class for intermediate students grades 3-5 is one of ZGT’s favorite offerings. Their native and non-native teachers make learning Mandarin fun and easy and know how to connect with children so they’ll want to come to Mandarin class. zgtnewyork.com